It’s the time of year where we’re likely to overindulge. Clever marketing and Western traditions, coupled with drizzly days, spell out a recipe for bright lights, lazy nights and perhaps one too many brandy buttered mince pies!
If you reside in the opposite hemisphere, you’re faced with equally tempting indulgences including crisp cold beers with BBQ’s and opting out of exercising in fresh air to escape the blazing sun.
However it doesn’t have to be this way! Finding a happy medium is actually easier than you think. The right key to finding balance lies in a mindful mindset – one where you’re making conscious decisions and not depriving yourself of the things that make you feel most happy.
Stay well this Christmas by following these 5 easy-peasy steps:
- Redesign your plate – Good news, if you’re planning on having a traditional roast with all the trimmings, you are on the right track to a balanced meal. Just make sure your plate is composed of roughly 55% veggies, 25% protein, 10% grains and 10% fats. This way you’ll be consuming an abundance of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents. Try to opt for organic, especially when it comes to meat. Non-organic meat contains toxins and pesticides from the animal’s diet that when consumed, can lead to chronic illness. Going organic also benefits the animals and our planet – Win, win, win!
- Look after your microbiome and it will look after you! Add pro-biotic foods such as organic yoghurt and a fork full of pre-biotic foods such as sauerkraut and kimchi to your plate. They’ll make a scrummy side to your roast and can easily be purchased from your local supermarket.
- Up the protein – My clients will agree that I go on about this just a little 😉 Its just sooo important to either eat sweet stuff within a meal or with a bit of protein (such as a few nuts). This will help avoid a blood sugar spike and a cascade of detrimental effects on your endocrine system.
- It’s the thought that counts – It’s so easy to fall into the consumerism trap but spending mindlessly can leave you feeling unsatisfied and stressed. Why not show loved ones you care by making your own cards or baking something. You’ll also be saving the environment at the same time!
- Laugh and be merry. Don’t let the idea of a ‘perfect Christmas’ stop you from having a really good one. The best things in life happen organically, they’re unplanned and they’re definitely not always perfect. Avoid stress at all costs. Instead, go with the flow, go for a walk amongst nature, watch a comedy, delegate tasks, leave the washing up until tomorrow, enjoy the moment – and see the magic of life unfold all around you.
What ever you do, have a wonderful Christmas.
x
